The early days with a newborn can be beautiful, emotional and overwhelming. Between feeding, recovery, sleep changes and getting to know your baby, new parents are learning every day.
At the same time, advice can come from everywhere. Grandparents, friends, social media, online searches and even AI tools. While most advice is well meant, it does not always feel helpful.
New research from Colief found that more than 70% of parents received unsolicited advice during their baby’s first year, with half of that advice considered unhelpful. For many parents, the hardest part is not the advice itself, but knowing how to respond when it does not feel right for their family.
Midwife, health visitor and Colief ambassador Angie Willis, known as @theecomidwife, says this is something she often sees with new parents.
“What this research really tells us is that new parents are struggling to push back on well-meaning advice that doesn’t always serve them,” says Angie. “It highlights how much we need to talk more openly about what new parents actually need.”
What new parents may be too polite to say
One of Angie’s most important pieces of advice for visitors is simple: avoid kissing a newborn and always wash your hands before cuddling or handling them.
A newborn’s immune system is still developing, which means even a small illness can be more serious in the early weeks. Visitors may mean well, but close contact, kisses and unwashed hands can introduce germs that a baby is not ready to fight off.
Many parents understand this, but feel awkward asking loved ones to follow these steps. Setting expectations before baby arrives can help make those early visits feel calmer and more supportive.
Why newborn boundaries matter
Another important tip is to avoid turning up unannounced, even if you are close family.
The first few weeks after birth can be physically and emotionally tiring. Parents may be recovering, feeding, resting or simply needing quiet time with their baby. A quick message to ask when is a good time to visit can make a big difference.
Support does not always mean giving advice. Sometimes the most helpful thing you can do is listen, respect boundaries and let parents set the pace.
Top tips for visiting a newborn
If you are visiting a new baby, these small steps can help parents feel more supported:
- Avoid kissing baby in the early weeks
- Wash your hands before holding baby
- Do not visit if you feel unwell
- Always ask before visiting
- Respect the parents’ routine and boundaries
- Avoid giving advice unless they ask for it
- Offer practical help, such as bringing food or helping with small tasks
These simple actions can help create a safer, calmer environment for baby and parents.
How modern parenting support is changing
Parenting has changed a lot over the generations. Some advice that was once common may now feel outdated, because we understand more about newborn safety, baby skin health and gentle everyday care.
Modern parents are also looking for support that fits real life. They want clear information, practical routines and baby care products that make daily moments feel a little easier.
Nappy care is one example. Traditional creams can be thick and messy and often need rubbing into delicate skin. Colief Nappy Care Spray has been designed as a gentle, no-touch way to help clean, protect and prevent nappy rash.
Suitable from birth, it supports everyday nappy care in a simple spray format, helping make changes cleaner and easier at home or on the go.
Because new parents do not need more pressure. They need calm support, trusted advice and practical solutions that help them care for their baby with confidence.
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